Definiteness

Definiteness is in linguistics plays a category of determination, the lecturers expressions or related to such expressions. ( Referencing expressions are noun phrases in the broadest sense. ) Their function is the reference to the speech already familiar universe ( definiteness, such as the old lady, this ) by reference to not talk to the universe Imported ( indefiniteness, for B is. an old lady to distinguish someone ). In languages ​​like German definiteness is a grammatical category that is especially in contrast between the definite ( " certain " ) vs. indefinite ( " indeterminate " ) article expresses.

In languages ​​such as German, a nominal expression is then accurately marked as definite if the amount of its speakers already exists in the speech universe and when it is exhausted, ie if all and not only some elements of the already introduced amount are meant.

In both examples, the nominal term students is indefinite, because the speakers are first and foremost by this expression introduced. After this block, this set of speakers is introduced. In the second sentence of Example 1 it is exhausted; Therefore, the definite pronoun stands them. In the postscript of Example 2, however, is indeed also refers to this amount, but it is not exhausted; therefore, the indefinite pronoun stands as some.

The linguistic expression of definiteness is expressed in Article languages ​​such as German, English, French, Bulgarian, Greek, and many others through the article, but also by other determinative and pronouns.